Why It’s Time To Rethink Your Bra

“Many women notice that during midlife and through menopause, hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to fluctuate, increasing sensitivity and changing fullness or size,” says Hannah de Boer from lingerie brand, Eberjey. “Ill-fitting wired bras can cause a range of discomforts, from pinching and irritation to bruising. Many women experience pressure points, shoulder pain, restricted breathing or red marks under the bust. We often hear about straps digging in because they are carrying too much weight or wires sitting on breast tissue instead of the ribcage due to poor fit.”

Katie Lopes, co-founder of Stripe & Stare, agrees: “Wired bras can create a very localised compression, especially under the breast root and along lymphatic pathways, so if you’re wearing them all day every day, that pressure and friction can start to add up. While underwires aren’t inherently ‘dangerous’, breast specialists have linked that kind of prolonged restriction to discomfort and skin irritation.”

This is often when the flexibility of a soft bra becomes especially meaningful. “Without a fixed wire, the bra adapts with your body instead of pushing against it,” says Hannah. “Soft styles offer gentle, consistent support that responds to those changes, helping women feel supported without feeling restricted during a time when their bodies are asking for more ease.” Fit specialists and research continue to show that soft bras can help reduce tension in the shoulders and back while supporting natural movement.

The science around breast health, support and biomechanics is very clear that what really matters is fit and how pressure is distributed, not whether there’s metal in the bra. Katie adds: “Biomedical studies show that movement of the breast during everyday activities influence torso motion and tissue stress, and that better designed support can reduce discomfort and musculoskeletal strain. And that is exactly why I love soft bras: they don’t force your body to adapt to the bra; they adapt to your body.”

Fit is everything. Hannah advises that, for everyday wear, you should look for a band that feels secure but comfortable, supportive fabrics and a cup shape that complements your natural silhouette. “You want a firm, well-fitting underband that sits snugly without digging in or marking the skin,” adds Katie. “Then look for structure without stiffness – details like multi-layer cups, internal slings, side panels and discreet side seam boning can all give beautiful lift and shaping without a wire. Pay attention to strap design too: wider or lightly cushioned straps spread weight more evenly and protect your shoulders. Getting your size right is essential, check online size guides and pay attention to how the cups and band fit – if you’re spilling over at the neck edge or underarm, you may need to size up in the cup.” Finally, always try a bra on under clothes so you can ensure you have the smooth line you’re after.